MSC Meraviglia Undergoes Emergency Propeller Repairs in Portland, Maine

The MSC Meraviglia, considered the 23rd largest cruise ship in the world at 171,598 gross tons, has been berthed in Portland, Maine, since May 12, 2025, undergoing emergency propeller repairs that forced the cancellation of its scheduled New York-to-Bahamas voyage. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, specialized dive teams are replacing bent or damaged propeller blades at the Ocean Gateway Terminal, while the vessels crew remains on board to support the operation. Launched in 2017, the ship offers a variety of onboard amenities, including Broadway-style theater shows, multiple pools, the Polar Aquapark, specialty dining, the MSC Kids Club, and LEGO-themed play areas.

Unscheduled Call in Portland and Mechanical Issues

Officials reported that the MSC Meraviglia experienced mechanical problems affecting its speed and propulsion, prompting an unplanned detour to Portland on May 12. Divers are using hydraulic grinders to remove and replace damaged propeller sections, then balancing both shafts for optimal performance. The U.S. Coast Guard issued navigation warnings for boaters in Casco Bay, advising caution around the repair site. Exhaust scrubbers are active as part of standard emissions control procedures, a measure that has prompted occasional visible smoke and some local concern about air quality.

Focus on Safety and Passenger Compensation

In a public statement, MSC Cruises said, “The decision to take MSC Meraviglia out of service reflects our commitment to safety and guest experience. We regret the inconvenience and appreciate passengers understanding as specialized teams carry out necessary repairs.” Passengers originally booked for the May 11 sailing were notified in mid-April of the voyage cancellation. Affected guests were offered full refunds, the option to rebook on another MSC Cruises departure, or a 50 percent Future Cruise Credit. The cruise line emphasized that although the situation caused a schedule disruption, the technical issues did not compromise the safety of those on board.

Underwater Repair Operations

The maintenance team utilizes hydraulic grinders to cut away sections of bent propeller blades, carefully replacing affected components to restore speed and efficiency. Once repairs are completed, the ship will undergo tests to confirm that propulsion has been fully restored. During this time, the U.S. Coast Guard continues to monitor operations, reminding local boaters, “Boaters in Casco Bay should remain vigilant and heed navigation alerts while dive operations are active around the Ocean Gateway Terminal.” Environmental questions about emissions have been raised by some community members, though MSC Cruises states that its use of scrubbers is meant to minimize pollutants while the ship is docked.

Future Itineraries and Amenities

MSC Cruises anticipates completing the final phase of repairs by May 16 or 17, 2025, allowing MSC Meraviglia to resume service from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal in New York on May 18. Its immediate seven-night voyages will include stops in Port Canaveral, Nassau, and the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve through April 2027. The line has also scheduled a pair of seven-night Bermuda itineraries in August and September 2025. Starting in 2026, the vessel is set to reposition to the Mediterranean for a summer deployment, followed by a planned return to New York for the winter 2026–27 season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did the MSC Meraviglia stop in Portland, Maine?

It made an unscheduled call in Portland because of mechanical issues with its propellers that impacted cruising speed. Underwater repairs became necessary to ensure safe and efficient operation.

How were passengers affected?

Passengers were notified in April that the May 11, 2025, sailing would be canceled. They received options for full refunds, rebooking on another MSC voyage, or a 50 percent Future Cruise Credit.

How long will repairs take?

Repairs began on May 12 and involve cutting away and replacing damaged propeller segments. MSC Cruises estimates the underwater work to be finished by May 16 or 17, 2025.

What measures has MSC Cruises taken to address environmental concerns?

While docked in Portland, the ship has been using exhaust scrubbers designed to remove toxins from emissions. Some residents have voiced concerns about air quality, but MSC Cruises asserts that scrubbers help minimize the ships environmental footprint.

When will the MSC Meraviglia return to service, and what are its future plans?

The ship is scheduled to begin sailing again on May 18, 2025, from New York. After completing itineraries to the Bahamas, Florida, and Bermuda through 2027, it will reposition to the Mediterranean in 2026 before returning to New York for the winter 2026–27 season.

With mechanical repairs nearing completion, the MSC Meraviglia is expected to resume its lineup of cruises, bringing its full suite of amenities back to passengers and reaffirming MSC Cruises focus on safety and reliability.